2015 June Nonprofit of the Month - Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Jun 22nd, 2015

Mission:

The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (LCHCC) provides leadership for the advancement of economic prosperity for our diverse membership, business community, and region.

Purpose:

The purpose of the LCHCC is to provide business programs and services that will expand and mature investments, job opportunities, education, community service, wellness, and activity in Las Cruces.

Key goals:

It is the goal of the LCHCC to serve our members, community, and region. We do that by supporting educational and workforce development initiatives, advocating for a business-friendly community, helping facilitate foreign investment opportunities, supporting economic development initiatives, and serving as a resource to our business community.

History:

The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce was initiated in 1992 as the Hispano Chamber of Doña Ana County, and in 1994 incorporated as the Hispano Chamber of Commerce de Las Cruces. In 2013, the name was changed to what we know today as the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

The original founders consisted of a group of business owners who shared a strong common belief and were interested in developing a support organization for small and Hispanic-owned businesses. The Chamber started with only 10 members, a number that has since grown to more than 300 members in Las Cruces, Alamogordo, southern Doña Ana County, El Paso, Texas, and Albuquerque. The diverse membership includes businesses, nonprofit organizations, individuals, and students.

The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to serve the Las Cruces and Doña Ana community for more than 20 years, and will continue to be an anchor in our area for growth and development.

Key people to know:

Richard Aguilar, president of the board of directors Eldelisa Nava, director of operations

Events and activities:

The LCHCC will be busy between now and the rest of the year.

LCHCC Rayo Perez Education Scholarship Reception: Outstanding high school graduates within Doña Ana County will be awarded a scholarship and recognized for their academic excellence.

Junior Amigo Ambassador Program: Junior Amigos is made up of high schoolaged youth who have volunteered to serve as youth ambassadors for the LCHCC. These youth will be busy engaging in projects throughout the summer and planning for the 2015-16 school year.

Job-to-Career Readiness Boot Camps: In partnership with MVEDA, Doña Ana Community College and NM Workforce Connection, these county-wide events help prepare those searching for employment, thinking about a career change, or just wanting to brush up on their skills.

Diez y Seis de Septiembre celebration activities: The LCHCC will host and/or participate in cultural activities September 12-18. Included is a luncheon on the 16th honoring Latinas in the community.

“At the Table, A Leadership Summit for Latinas” This day-long event will allow young Latina’s (high school and college) and professionals to examine their role and impact in the community both personally and professional.

Middle School Recognition Program: This program works with 12 public and private middle schools in order to recognize outstanding achievement by 6th, 7th and 8th grade students.

Annual Foreign Investment Trade Mission: This event is designed to spur economic development and future job creation by bringing foreign investors to the area to explore business expansion and joint venture opportunities in the area.

Annual Golf Tournament and Rayo Perez Education Scholarship Silent Auction Small business training and development: Launching in July, businesses will have the opportunity to participate in activities such as workshops and business consultation to help move their business to the next level.

Networking events: These include events such as our monthly Mix ‘n’ Mingle events, speed networking, and other member events. Next Mix ‘n’Mingle will be held on June 11th from 4::30 to 6:30 p.m. at First National Rio Grande, 3500 Northrise Drive.

Caregiver Conference: This event is brought to you by our health committee which provides education and networking opportunities to the healthcare professionals in our region. This inaugural event to be held on Aug. 27 at the Hilton Garden Inn will provide education and support from.

Future plans:

Going forward, the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will continue to enhance our member programs and services and be a strong partner in the business community.